Some Essential Kit

Insulated Jackets & Rucksacks

Whether your travelling in summer or winter, this type of jacket is a must for all hiking enthusiasts. Ideal to keep you protected from the elements. Very pack-able when not needed, the perfect jacket for all seasons.

A day rucksack, even in Winter, does not need to be too large. I would suggest 45 litres maximum.

Ensure the rucksack has waist and chest support straps.

1. Before packing your rucksack with all you need for the day,line your rucksack with a dry bag,

which can be sealed. This will ensure that the contents will remain dry even during the

wettest of days. Items, that you are less likely to need can be packed in first, followed then

by items that you will need to easily access during the day, which should be placed in last,

near the top.

2. Avoid having items hanging from the outside of the rucksack as these can be a hazard during

the day particularly in dense forest or when scrambling on steep ground. When placing

items into your rucksack, keep the softer items towards the side of the sack that is nearest

to your back. For example, you do not want a steel tea flask sticking into your back as you

hike along during the day.

3. Now that the rucksack is correctly packed, place it on your back. Ensure the waist straps are

tight – not over-tight, but just that the straps sit comfortable on your hips. The shoulder

straps should be comfortable, so adjust them until you feel the rucksack sitting snugly and

comfortably on your shoulders. Lastly, for a final piece of support, clip the chest straps

together so that the entire load now feels comfortable and easy to carry.

Boots & Trail Runners

Your guide will check the condition of your hiking boots or trail runners. Every person is responsible for themselves, however we will need to be sure that if you are hiking that your boots are waterproof and provide good grip and ankle support. Regretfully we say! No boots, no hike!

Buying boots – 5 key points

1. Do not by online. Visit a reputable, specialist outdoor shop. Get fitted correctly and listen to

the advice of the shop assistant.

2. Choose a boot that suits your requirements, i.e., if most of your walking is traversing the wet

upland bogs of the Wicklow Hills, a light Gortex trail boot will not work. Select a boot that

suits the environment where you will do most of your walking. If it is dryer forest trails, then

a light boot may well suffice.

3. Always bring a pair of your hiking socks with you to the shop to ensure that you get a good

comfortable and accurate fitting.

4. Try on a few brands. Walk around the shop. Ensure you have good ankle support and that

the boots are comfortable and do not feel overtight. After several tough hours hiking, some

walkers’ feet may swell a small bit, be aware of this and maybe consider a half size larger

than your normal shoe size. This is the importance of avoiding buying online. Use the shop

assistant’s advice and experience to help you choose the best fitting boot that suits your

own unique foot size and shape.

5. After several seasons boots may often wear along the stitching. If possible, I like to choose a

boot with a minimum of stitching as I believe that they last better and maintain their

waterproof properties longer. Do not forget to buy spare laces, Dubbin, and polish, as, well

maintained and cared for boots will last for many happy hiking years.

Hydration & Food

Our guides will insist that every client be well prepared for the day ahead. Essential to every hiking or trail run event is proper hydration and food. Correct hydration before and during every event is critical. We recommend that for a days hike two litres of drinking water is required.

A flask with warm tea or coffee on those cold chilly days is always welcome. Plenty of snacks, chocalate , jellies as well as some other more substantial food will help make the day a success.